Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold (25) intends to take over Ligue 1 side FC Nantes, according to a report this Friday from L’Equipe. The outlet understands that the England international’s father, Michael Arnold, who acts as the manager of his sons’ interests through a London-based investment firm has a keen interest in the French sports market. It would not be the first time considering Alexander-Arnold is already a minority shareholder of the French Formula 1 team, Alpine F1 Team, through Otro Capital.
L’Equipe understands that Arnold was interested in purchasing AS Saint-Etienne and Le Havre before setting his sights on FC Nantes. The 8-time French champions are owned by French businessman Waldemar Kita, an ever-unpopular figure among the Canaris fanbase. Kita owns FC Nantes since 2007 and has reportedly grew tired of the sporting and financial struggles encountered by the Loire-Atlantique side. Kita’s failure to build a new privately owned stadium and the TV rights deal debacle only confirmed his intention to, at least, entertain the club’s sale.
Kita reportedly met the Arnolds via videoconference last summer before meeting them in person, in Geneva, those last few days. The takeover bid reportedly amounts to €100m, including a straight €80m plus a seller credit of €20m accompanied by various bonuses of up to €40m. A third meeting reportedly occurred this Thursday in London between the interested parties.
The outlet understands that Kita would want to recoup most of his losses, which would make it difficult for Alexander-Arnold to align with his demands. Nantes have denied any takeover talks with the England international and his family. In the summer, Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group tried to purchase Girondins de Bordeaux, before pulling out of the deal amid the club’s financial woes.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
